Idris - who became an household name after starring in crime series The Wire - had sparked speculation about his forthcoming film parts, tweeting: "Having one of the biggest meetings of my professional life today... Meeting a very controversial director for a very controversial part.

"I wish I could tell you more but... in due time... any way... On the plane to the destination of my fate... ok... a lil dramatic... destination of my life... ?" he added.

It had been thought that he was up for a part in Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained.

The British actor, who previously starred in Thor, is currently filming Ridley Scott's Prometheus with Noomi Rapace.